KNOWLEDGE ABOUT HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS AND OTHER SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN THE SOUTHERN REGION OF CHILE, 2023

https://doi.org/10.56274/rcs.2025.4.2.58

Abstract

Introduction: Sexually transmitted infections are a health problem that is prevalent in Chile among people aged 15 to 39, the predominant age group in university settings. Objective: To describe knowledge about HIV and other STIs among students at a university in southern Chile. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted involving 325 subjects. Data were obtained on their sociodemographic characteristics, sexual health history, and knowledge about HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Results: It was found that 76.9% were between 18 and 23 years old.  5.8% of sexually active individuals reported having had a sexually transmitted infection, and 52.2% did not use condoms. 98.5% had a medium to high level of knowledge, with a statistical relationship found with some profile variables; despite this, there was around 30% specific ignorance about some STIs. Risky sexual behaviors influenced by the environment and lack of comprehensive sex education were identified. Discussion: There were similarities with publications on the subject, especially the tendency toward a lack of preventive self-care among the university student population. Conclusions: Despite the level of knowledge, there is still a lack of awareness regarding STIs, as well as risky sexual behaviors and a lack of preventive self-care. Comprehensive sex education needs to be implemented in institutional educational settings.